Deputy County Manager Linda Matteson and UWNNM Communications Specialist Megan Bucklin help kick-off the start of the ‘Kindled Hearts for Warm Homes’ campaign at the CommuniTree in the Municipal Building Lobby. Photo Courtesy LAC

COUNTY NEWS RELEASE

Los Alamos County and United Way of Northern New Mexico (UWNNM) have partnered for the CommuniTree “Kindled Hearts for Warm Homes” drive Nov. 21 through Dec. 31 to collect warm weather apparel and everyday essentials, as well as raise funds for families impacted by the Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak fires and subsequent flooding in Taos, San Miguel, and Mora Counties earlier this year. 

The “CommuniTree,” located on the wall just off the Municipal Building Lobby across from the Customer Care Center (1000 Central Ave., Los Alamos), is decorated for the occasion, and includes the names of several non-profit organizations working hard in northern New Mexico to help in the recovery efforts following the Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak fires that burned 341,735 acres in the spring and summer of 2022, and destroyed at least 903 structures and damaged 85 more. 

The drive will began on Tuesday, Nov. 22 and will end Friday, Dec. 30. Direct donations may be made by using the links provided, or simply scan the QR codes available for easy access. For those who would like to donate goods, a collection bin is located at the CommuniTree, and a list of desired items is available below. 

UWNNM Executive Director Monica Griego shared, “We hope the community remembers how fortunate we were this summer following the Cerro Pelado fire and considers opening their hearts and giving to our close neighbors who weren’t as fortunate.” Griego adds, “As you are out shopping this Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday, don’t forget extend your generosity into Giving Tuesday, and donate!” 

Donations of goods can be made during regular business hours, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Municipal Building is closed on weekends, as well as Nov. 24-25 for Thanksgiving and Dec.26 for the Christmas holiday. 

Items Needed to Help Northern New Mexico Fire Victim Families this Winter

Please provide new, unopened items only. Please do not wrap items.

Drop-off donations in the Municipal Building lobby at the CommuniTree.

(1000 Central Ave., Los Alamos)

• Warm weather apparel – socks, mittens, jackets, hats, scarfs
• Toiletries – toothbrushes/toothpaste, shampoo/conditioner, combs/brushes, razors, shaving cream, sunscreen, lotion, chap stick
• Clothing in various sizes for children and adults
• Non-perishable food items
• Towels and wash cloths
• Diapers and wipes
• Blankets
• Books

Video – The CommuniTree is decorated for the “Kindled Hearts for Warm Homes” campaign, and adorned with QR codes individuals can use to make direct donations to non-profit organizations helping families in northern New Mexico following the devastation of the 2022 fire season.